SECTOR 2 Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 1.5 (2012 = 1.9; 2010 = 1.4; 2008 = 1.0; 2006 = 1.0) 2.4 Transparency of ownership of media houses in print/broadcasting is guaranteed by law and enforced. Ownership of media houses in both print and broadcasting is transparent. In both cases, media houses that are set up as formal businesses have to register with the OBFC, and information on registerered/licenced businesses is readily available on the OBFC website. Beyond this, in broadcasting, before a station is issued with a licence, it has to undergo a public consultation process, whereby intent to broadcast is announced in print media, so that anyone opposed to the station may contest its set-up. “But this is not part of any legislation, it’s just part of the process.” Following this public consultation process, the LCA Board decides on whether or not to grant the broadcasting licence. If an objection is raised, however, the application is referred to the Registrar. In print, there are no laws requiring transparency of ownership.However, in most papers, the names of the owners are stated in the publication. Owners are also generally known in public, particularly those involved in public outreach – such as Public Eye and Lesotho Times. Overall, there are no apparent attempts to hide media ownership. AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER Lesotho 2015 31